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Caux Democracy Forum 2025: Opening Ceremony1
Revitalizing Democracy - One Humanity
08 July 2025
Deadline: 30 June
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About the event
REGISTRATIONS FOR THE FULL RESIDENTIAL CAUX DEMOCRACY FORUM ARE NOW CLOSED BUT YOU CAN STILL JOIN US FOR THE OPENING CEREMONY ON 8 JULY!
The Caux Democracy Forum, taking place in Caux, Switzerland from 8 to 12 July, 2025, aspires to inspire, equip, and connect individuals, groups, and organisations committed to strengthening democracy, human rights and civic engagement across Europe and the world.
This Forum comes at a critical juncture for global democracy. Building on the inaugural 2024 event and in the wake of the "super election year," we will delve deeper into the values essential for strengthening democracy in a rapidly evolving world, threatened by disinformation, polarisation and waning participation.
By bringing together voices from civil society, grassroots movements, governments, academia, corporations and non-traditional sectors, the Forum creates a unique platform for addressing pressing challenges and fostering citizen engagement.
The Caux Democracy Forum is part of a three-year programme launched in 2024 which includes the Geneva Democracy Dialogues, regional events, and subsequent Caux Democracy Forums from 8-12 July, 2025 and 22-26 June, 2026.
This Forum is organised by Caux Initiatives of Change in partnership with Initiatives of Change International, The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) and OHCHR, as well as other partners (the list will continue to be updated in the weeks to come).
Thematic Tracks
Guided by these core values, the afternoon programme is built around three interconnected thematic tracks.
Each afternoon, participants can engage in dedicated group spaces—collaborative sessions designed to foster deeper connection, reflection, and action around these key themes.
These sessions not only offer space to share experiences and insights but also aim to explore the approaches, skills, and tools needed to take part in shaping and supporting collective efforts rooted in dialogue, trust, and collaboration.
The thematic tracks include:
- Healing the Wounds of the Past
- A Thriving Economy for People and Planet
- People Fostering Societal Cohesion
Additionally, group spaces will host Common Cause Groups, creating space for focused conversations and collaboration around some of the pressing challenges currently being faced in the world.
Stay tuned! More details on these tracks and group spaces will be released in the coming weeks.
The CDF 2025 - An exciting event
A Transformative Approach Rooted in the Values of Democracy
The Caux Democracy Forum offers a unique, values-driven experience that interweaves core democratic principles with pressing global challenges. Each day of the forum is anchored in a fundamental value, creating a progressive journey of exploration and growth:
- We Are One Humanity: Recognise that our shared human experiences are the source of hope and the cornerstone of democratic societies.
- Integrity: Explore how we can champion integrity on a personal and collective level and drive systemic change
- Trust: (Re)build relationships through trustbuilding, dialogue, respect and teamwork
- Courage: Explore strategies to defend democratic values and confront autocratic regimes, polarization, and systemic racism through collective action and principled resistance.
- Hope: Cultivate and sustain hope as a driving force for democratic renewal, inspiring resilience, vision, and action in the face of uncertainty and adversity.
By aligning each day's discussions with a core democratic value, participants will gain a holistic understanding of how these principles can be applied to address complex societal challenges. This innovative approach aims to inspire and empower individuals to be agents of change in their families, workplace, communities or countries.
Practical Information
A Transformative Approach Rooted in the Values of Democracy
The Caux Democracy Forum offers a unique, values-driven experience that interweaves core democratic principles with pressing global challenges. Each day of the forum is anchored in a fundamental value, creating a progressive journey of exploration and growth:
- We Are One Humanity: Recognise that our shared human experiences are the source of hope and the cornerstone of democratic societies.
- Integrity: Explore how we can champion integrity on a personal and collective level and drive systemic change
- Trust: (Re)build relationships through trustbuilding, dialogue, respect and teamwork
- Courage: Explore strategies to defend democratic values and confront autocratic regimes, polarization, and systemic racism through collective action and principled resistance.
- Hope: Cultivate and sustain hope as a driving force for democratic renewal, inspiring resilience, vision, and action in the face of uncertainty and adversity.
By aligning each day's discussions with a core democratic value, participants will gain a holistic understanding of how these principles can be applied to address complex societal challenges. This innovative approach aims to inspire and empower individuals to be agents of change in their families, workplace, communities or countries.
The Venue: Welcome to the Caux Palace!
- Overlooking the Leman, above the city of Montreux, just 1h20 from Geneva, the Caux Palace and Villa Maria offer an inspiring and extraordinary setting for your meetings and workshops, conferences, cultural events, and retreats.
- Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery and the rich history of the place. Retreat from the bustling routine, take time to gain some perspective and find a safe space that allows for creative sharing and exchanges.
Speakers
Discover our inspiring speakers.
PHILIPPE LAZZARINI (Switzerland)
Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)
Learn more
PHILIPPE LAZZARINI (Switzerland)
Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)
Learn more
THEMATIC TRACK 1: Healing the Wounds of the Past
Background
Conflict has been a defining element of global history, and today, war once again casts a long shadow over Europe. The full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 marked a stark return of large-scale military conflict on the continent, with profound implications that ripple across the globe.
- Accounts of resilience from civil society leaders, human rights advocates, and ordinary citizens affected by conflict in Ukraine, Belarus, and beyond
- Strategies for resisting polarization and maintaining hope in the face of repression and war
- Practical tools for fostering reconciliation and civic engagement in communities under pressure
- Insightful dialogue on the role of memory, truth-telling, and justice in healing collective trauma
9 July (14:30 - 16:00): Facing Dictators: The Power of Truth Over Tyranny
About the Session
This participatory workshop will explore the personal and political cost of resisting authoritarianism, featuring powerful testimonies from three women who have each confronted dictatorship in deeply personal and professional ways. Through film, storytelling, discussion, and collective action, participants will be invited to reflect on the role of truth in the face of tyranny, and consider what solidarity and advocacy can look like today.
Speakers
NATALIA ARNO (Russia), Founder & President of Free Russia Foundation
Natalia Arno is the Founder and President of Free Russia Foundation.
In 2004, Ms. Arno joined the International Republican Institute, leading its Russia programs in civic education, grassroots organizing, party building, women and youth leadership, civil society development, and local governance. For her pro-democracy work, in 2012, Ms. Arno was given an ultimatum by Putin’s security services— to leave her homeland in 48 hours or face 20 years in prison on bogus treason charges.
Common Cause Group 1
As part of the Caux Democracy Forum 2025, Initiatives of Change France is proud to organise a series of three exceptional round tables that will explore the complexities of Middle Eastern conflicts through French perspectives—drawing on diverse academic, religious, and civic voices. The conversations will offer a unique opportunity to foster deeper understanding, mutual respect, and innovative thinking.
Focus of the Round Tables
10 July (14:30 - 16:00) I SESSION 1: Restoring mutual understanding and recognition as a prerequisite for trust
At the heart of Initiatives of Change’s philosophy is the belief that healing begins with acknowledging the inner motives, emotions, and prejudices of all those affected by conflict. To overcome division, the traumas and feelings of fear, insecurity, racism, injustice, betrayal, hatred, powerlessness, despair, and manipulated identities must first be heard and understood.
11 July (14:30 - 16:00) I SESSION 2: Religions, both instruments of conflict and potential sources of peace
In this region, where the three major monotheistic religions originated, spirituality can be both exploited for political ends and harnessed as a powerful force for healing and reconciliation. This round table will explore how religious traditions contribute to conflict, but also how they can serve as bridges to peace and understanding.
Speakers
Anne-Catherine Sutermeister
About the session
Humanitarian crises around the world make the headlines every day. The images associated with these tragedies often evoke tears, suffering, hunger, despair, loneliness, separation, desolation, etc.
More recently, cyberattacks and misinformation have also clouded our understanding of global events. We sometimes feel helpless and overwhelmed by images of crises, violence, armed conflicts and natural disasters.
The contemporary art exhibition Dialogues on Humanity responds to these feelings.
Humanity is the foundation and the goal of humanitarian principles: empathy and dignity are at the heart of the humanitarian approach.
This interactive workshop allows participants to experience the humanitarian principles from different perspectives.
Speakers
Anne-Catherine Sutermeister
Partners
DISCOVER OUR WORKSHOPS
The Caux Forum offers a range of exciting workshops. Find out more and pick & choose.
About the Opening Ceremony
Join over 300 changemakers from across the globe for the Opening Ceremony of the second edition of the Caux Democracy Forum 2025 to explore the values that shape and sustain democracy. As democracy faces unprecedented global challenges, this gathering offers a vital space to reflect, connect, and act with shared purpose.
Held in the inspiring setting of the Caux Palace, this event takes place on 8 July, starting at 14:30 CEST. After the welcoming and keynote addresses, participants will be able to choose from three interactive sessions. The programme will continue with the inauguration of the Peace Parks Initiative in Caux, alongside opportunities to visit exhibitions presented during the Caux Forum, and will conclude with a networking reception and jazz concert organised in collaboration with the Montreux Jazz Artists Foundation.
Organised by Caux Initiatives of Change in partnership with Initiatives of Change International, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) and OHCHR, the Opening Ceremony will welcome an in-person audience of around 300 participants and will also be streamed online.
Whether you are attending the full four-day residential Forum or just this event, we invite you to join us — either in person or virtually — for a day of meaningful exchanges and cultural experiences.11
- Philippe LAZZARINI, Commissioner-General of UNRWA, who brings deep insights from the frontline of humanitarian law and multilateral cooperation.
- Ambassador Francesca CAMILLERI VETTIGER, Chair of the Committee of Ministers’ Deputies, Malta's Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe who will speak to Europe’s shared values and collective commitment to democracy and the rule of law.
- Joseph DEISS, prominent Swiss economist and politician, former President of the Swiss Confederation and former President of the United Nations General Assembly will offer his reflections on global challenges and the urgent need for unity under the banner of One Humanity.
- Youth leaders and changemakers from our parallel youth democracy programme "Reimagining Democracy(ies), who will introduce a short film presenting their fresh perspectives and hope.
The Opening session will be moderated by Ignacio PACKER, Executive Director of the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation, with music by Jean-Marc VIGNOLI.
REGISTER NOW AND JOIN IN PERSON
TRAINING
TRAINING
Unlike traditional conferences, the Caux IDG Forum offers participants a transformative highly participative immersive experience designed to provide perspective and space for deep reflection.
By stepping away from daily routines, participants are empowered to explore their potential as changemakers and develop innovative approaches to personal and collective transformation.
Unlike traditional conferences, the Caux IDG Forum offers participants a transformative highly participative immersive experience designed to provide perspective and space for deep reflection.
By stepping away from daily routines, participants are empowered to explore their potential as changemakers and develop innovative approaches to personal and collective transformation.
past conferences
fees
- CHF 50.-/person (including reception, dinner & concert)
partners
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Caux Democracy Forum 2025 - Opening Ceremony
programme
Tuesday, 08 July
14:30 - 15:45
Theatre
Opening Ceremony
Moderator: Ignacio PACKER, Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation
MUSICAL INTERLUDE
- Jean-Marc VIGNOLI (violin)
WELCOME WORDS
- Jacqueline COTÉ, President Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation
REIMAGINING DEMOCRACY(IES) - Youth Perspectives
- Video reel showcasing the "Reimagining Democracy(ies)" youth sessions (5 - 8 July)
MUSICAL INTERLUDE
ADDRESS by Council of Europe Representative
- Ambassador Francesca Camilleri VETTIGER, Chair of the Committee of Ministers’ Deputies, Malta's Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe
MUSICAL INTERLUDE
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
- Philippe LAZZARINI - UNWRA Commissioner-General
A TIME TO REFLECT
MUSICAL INTERLUDE
OVERVIEW: What to expect at the Caux Forum 2025
MUSICAL INTERLUDE
15:45 - 16:15
Main Hall
Refreshments
16:15 - 17:45
Parallel Sessions
Participants choose one of the three sessions at the front desk when arriving at the Caux Palace (colour cards)
SESSION 1: Revitalising Democracy - Integrity
Help us explore together, bring your experience to the table and share your stories as we unpack thecomplex and timely question regarding the importance of integrity in revitalising democracy.
WHERE: to be defined
Stay tuned for our inspiring speakers & facilitators
SESSION 2: Revitalising Democracy - Trust
We would love to hear from you! Join the conversation and help us explore the pathways towards (re)building trust to strengthen and revitalise democracy.
WHERE: Caux Palace Theatre
WITH:
- Ambassador Nathalie CHUARD (Switzerland) & Roohullah SHINWARI (Afghanistan): A powerful diplomatic-human story of trust and perseverance.
- Anas ANSAR (Bangladesh) - A youth perspective on democratic values and return to roots.
- Ambassador Christian GUILLERMET (Costa Rica) - Reflections on integrity and values in diplomacy.
- Jordan DAVIS (USA) - On air and On edge: a radio correspondent’s journey through America’s Democratic crossroads
- Heinrich PICK (Germany - tbc) - Empathy & Action: A Democracy dialogues experience
SESSION 3: Revitalising Democracy - Courage
Share your insights and experiences as we explore what it means to live thoughtfully, responsibly and courageously in a fast-changing world.
WHERE: to be defined
Stay tuned for our inspiring speakers & facilitators
17:45 - 20:00
Belle Epoque & Main Hall
Cultural & Networking Activities
ART EXHIBITIONS - VERNISSAGE
Where: Belle Epoque & Caux Palace Esplanade
- Dialogues on Humanity
- Caricature Exhibitions
RECEPTION
Where: Main Hall
Including: "CAUX AS A PEACE PARK" - Announcement by:
- Andreas LARENTZAKIS, Executive Director IIPT - International Institute for Peace through Tourism
- Olivier GFELLER, Mayor of Montreux
- Jacqueline COTÉ, President Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation
19:00 - 20:30
Dining Room
Buffet Dinner
20:30 - 22:00
Theatre
Concert
With the support of the Montreux Jazz Artists Foundation
22:00 - 22:30
Chapel
Peace, Unity & Reconciliation Songs (Taizé Songs)